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Amazon.com
The tale of Taran, assistant pig keeper, has been entertaining young readers for generations. Set in the mythical land of Prydain (which bears a more than passing resemblance to Wales), Lloyd Alexander's book draws together the elements of the hero's journey from unformed boy to courageous young man. Taran grumbles with frustration at home in the hamlet Caer Dallben; he yearns to go into battle like his hero, Prince Gwydion. Before the story is over, he has met his hero and fought the evil leader who threatens the peace of Prydain: the Horned King.

What brings the tale of Taran to life is Alexander's skillful use of humor, and the way he personalizes the mythology he has so clearly studied. Taran isn't a stick figure; in fact, the author makes a point of mocking him just at the moments when he's acting the most highhanded and heroic. When he and the young girl Eilonwy flee the castle of the wicked queen Achren, Taran emotes, "'Spiral Castle has brought me only grief; I have no wish to see it again.' 'What has it brought the rest of us?' Eilonway asked. 'You make it sound as though we were just sitting around having a splendid time while you moan and take on.'" By the end, Alexander has spun a rousing hero's tale and created a compelling coming-of-age story. Readers will sigh with relief when they realize The Book of Three is only the first of the chronicles of Prydain. --Claire Dederer

From AudioFile
This second book in The Prydain Chronicles follows Taran, the assistant pig-keeper, as he and his companions set off on a quest to destroy Arawn's greatest weapon, the black cauldron. Narrator James Langton brings a fine sense of pacing and tension to this rich, action-packed story. His character voices are colored with a multitude of accents, primarily those of the British Isles and the United States. Initially the variety is jarring, and Langton occasionally slips out of character throughout the production. Even so, the main voices come through, and listeners will be sucked into Taran's world. An introduction read by Alexander himself rounds out a production that will delight fantasy listeners. A.F. © AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine --This text refers to the Audio Cassette edition.

Book Description
Since The Book of Three was first published in 1964, young readers have been enthralled by the adventures of Taran the Assistant Pig-Keeper and his quest to become a hero. Taran is joined by an engaging cast of characters that includes Eilonwy, the strong-willed and sharp-tongued princess; Fflewddur Fflam, the hyperbole-prone bard; the ever-faithful Gurgi; and the curmudgeonly Doli—all of whom have become involved in an epic struggle between good and evil that shapes the fate of the legendary land of Prydain. Released over a period of five years, Lloyd Alexander’s beautifully written tales not only captured children’s imaginations but also garnered the highest critical praise.
The Black Cauldron was a Newbery Honor Book, and the final volume in the chronicles, The High King, crowned the series by winning the Newbery Medal for “the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.”
Henry Holt is proud to present this classic series in a new, redesigned paperback format. The jackets feature stunning art by acclaimed fantasy artist David Wyatt, giving the books a fresh look for today’s generation of young fantasy lovers. The companion book of short stories, The Foundling is also available in paperback at this time.
In their more than thirty years in print, the Chronicles of Prydain have become the standard of excellence in fantasy literature for children.

From AudioFile
When Taran sets out to find out his parentage, he leaves the familiar behind and ventures to the far corners of Prydain. When three enchantresses tell him of the Mirror of Llunet and what it might offer, Taran is fixed on his destination. On his quest, he tangles with despicable folk, meets the honest people of the Free Commons, and comes to understand much about himself. Once again, James Langton's narration is outstanding. The earnestness of Taran in both joy and anguish, as well the liveliness of the supporting characters, is memorable. With tempo and lilt, he beckons the listener into the mists and mountains of the Welsh countryside that provides the background for this fourth book in the Prydain Chronicles. A.R. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine --This text refers to the Audio Cassette edition.

"Greater, more disastrous, and demanding more courage are the battles into which Taran leads his followers against Arawn Death-Lord.... The book has the philosophical depth and overtones of great fantasy." --The Horn Book
--This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

From Publishers Weekly
Eight short stories explore the mythical land of Prydain, the setting of the acclaimed fantasy series that includes the 1969 Newbery Medal winner, The High King (1969). Ages 8-12.
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Paperback edition.